HONG KONG CONNECT


	Hong Kong ranks among world’s top three most competitive economies in World Competitiveness Yearbook 2025 In the latest World Competitiveness Yearbook (WCY) 2025 published by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), Hong Kong’s global competitiveness rises by two places further to third globally, after improving by two places to fifth last year. This marks Hong Kong’s return to the global top three for the first time since 2019. A Government spokesperson said on 17 June that the IMD's WCY 2025 has reaffirmed Hong Kong as one of the most competitive economies in the world with a continuous rise in ranking. Hong Kong’s scores in overall terms and in many areas have improved in WCY 2025, showing that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government’s policy directions are on the right course and that various policies have yielded results, in particular the ranking of ‘Government efficiency’ and ‘Business efficiency’. The spokesperson added that Hong Kong will continue to deepen integration with national development strategies, enhance its role as a ‘super connector’ and ‘super value-adder,’ strengthen governance and international cooperation, and pursue high-quality, sustainable growth with Mainland’s support. More details here.

	Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong 37^th Annual Awards Dinner The Financial Secretary of the HKSAR, Mr Paul Chan, attended the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong 37^th Annual Awards Dinner on 19 June. In his remarks, Mr Chan recalled his visit to Australia last September and highlighted the growing potential for partnership between Hong Kong and Australia. He stressed that trade and investment have long been cornerstones of the bilateral relationship. Since the Hong Kong–Australia Free Trade Agreement and the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement came into force in 2020, economic ties have continued to flourish. In the first quarter of this year, bilateral merchandise trade recorded a year-on-year growth of 5 per cent. He added that Hong Kong continues to offer a world-class and unique platform for Australian companies seeking access to the vast Chinese Mainland market. Hong Kong’s “one country, two systems” framework remains firm and underpins the city’s competitiveness. Hong Kong continues to perform strongly in international rankings across various areas, including government efficiency, business environment, rule of law, infrastructure and connectivity, quality education, and lifestyle, all of which reinforce its status as a leading destination for global businesses. He further outlined Hong Kong’s forward-looking development strategy, from major infrastructure projects like the Northern Metropolis, to innovation and technology development, to deeper economic integration with the Greater Bay Area, all of which present immense new opportunities. More details here.

	5^th Anniversary of Promulgation & Implementation of Hong Kong National Security Law Forum The HKSAR Government held the 5^th Anniversary of Promulgation & Implementation of Hong Kong National Security Law Forum on 21 June. The Forum reviewed progress and looked ahead to the continued development of the HKSAR’s legal system in safeguarding national security. It aimed to enhance the understanding of the laws on safeguarding national security among various sectors and raise public awareness of national security. Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Xia Baolong, described the law as proven to be a “guardian” in defending the “one country, two systems” principle and in safeguarding the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong over the past five years. He also emphasised the importance of upholding national security, ensuring patriots govern Hong Kong, and promoting high-quality development through security, openness, rule of law, and governance reforms. The Chief Executive of the HKSAR and the Chairman of the Hong Kong National Security Committee, Mr John Lee, also delivered a keynote speech. Mr Lee highlighted the crucial role of the young generation in fostering a sense of mission and self-awareness in safeguarding national security and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to promoting national security education. More details here.

	Hong Kong sizzles with world-class sporting action in June 2025 June 2025 was a vibrant month for sports in Hong Kong, highlighting the city's capacity to host world-class events. The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races on 7–8 June brought together over 190 teams and more than 4,500 paddlers from around the globe, turning Victoria Harbour into a festive arena of competition and cultural celebration. From 18 to 22 June, the Volleyball Nations League Hong Kong 2025 took place at the Kai Tak Sports Park, featuring six elite national teams, including Olympic champions Italy and host nation China, competing in 12 thrilling matches. These events underscored Hong Kong's dynamic sports scene and its growing appeal as a premier destination for international sporting spectacles. More details here.

	Chinese Culture Festival 2025 The Chinese Culture Festival (CCF) 2025, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), opened on 13 June at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, launching over 280 events to be held from June to September. In a video speech at the opening ceremony, the Chief Executive of HKSAR, Mr John Lee, stated that the Government would fully leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages of enjoying the strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world under the “one country, two systems” principle to promote outstanding traditional Chinese culture on the global stage. He affirmed the Government’s commitment to showcasing the essence of Chinese culture to both Hong Kong citizens and visitors from the Mainland and overseas, with the aim of achieving “shaping tourism with cultural activities and promoting culture through tourism” and fostering the integration and mutual reinforcement of culture and tourism. As part of the Festival, the “Encountering Chinese Culture” Carnival, also organised by the LCSD, was held on 22 June to enhance public awareness of and appreciation of Chinese culture and intangible cultural heritage (ICH) items. The event attracted around 18 000 attendees. More details here. See Chief Executive’s speech here. More details on “Encountering Chinese Culture” Carnival here. For more information about programmes and activities of the CCF 2025, please visit www.ccf.gov.hk.



	HKETO showcases Hong Kong’s gateway role in regional trade The Director of HKETO Sydney, Mr Ricky Chong, virtually attended the networking event “Unlock Asia’s Supply Chain Advantage: Hong Kong the Gateway” organised by the Western Australia Chapter of the Hong Kong Australia Business Association in Perth on 5 June. The event gathered industry leaders and business professionals to explore Hong Kong’s pivotal role as a gateway for regional trade and supply chain connectivity. Mr Chong took the opportunity to share the latest initiatives to enhance Hong Kong’s position as a smart and green logistics hub, including greater export protection for enterprises, robust export credit services and enhanced electronic trade financing.

	HKETO celebrates CanRevive’s 30 years of compassion and community support The Director of HKETO Sydney, Mr Ricky Chong, attended the CanRevive 30^th Anniversary Charity Dinner on 21 June. The event celebrated three decades of CanRevive’s dedicated service to supporting cancer patients and their families in the Chinese-speaking community across Australia. Mr Chong extended his heartfelt congratulations to CanRevive on this significant milestone and commended the organisation’s unwavering commitment to providing care and support. He also recognised CanRevive’s vital role in fostering resilience, compassion and community spirit, and expressed HKETO Sydney’s appreciation for their continued partnership in charitable and cultural initiatives.

	HKETO welcomes inaugural Hong Kong Airlines flight to Sydney The Director of HKETO Sydney, Mr Ricky Chong, attended the inaugural ceremony of Hong Kong Airlines’ new daily service between Hong Kong and Sydney at Sydney Airport on 21 June. Marked by a traditional water cannon salute and ribbon-cutting ceremony, the event celebrated the strengthened air connectivity between the two cities. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Chong thanked Hong Kong Airlines for their trust in the Hong Kong - Australia markets and bringing the two places closer together. The new direct flight will make it easier for families to visit each other, for businesses to grow, and for tourists to explore everything both destinations have to offer. Mr Chong said that Hong Kong is a place where East meets West, tradition meets modernity, and city life meets nature - all packed into one vibrant, international hub.

	Promoting opportunities in Hong Kong to NSW young professionals The Deputy Director of HKETO Sydney, Mr Timothy Chau, attended the 2025 Young Professionals Networking Dinner organised by the New South Wales Chapter of the Hong Kong Australia Business Association on 25 June. In his remarks, Mr Chau highlighted Hong Kong's enduring strengths as Asia’s world city and one of the most dynamic and connected business hubs globally. He underscored the city's unique advantages, including its common law legal system, low and simple tax regime, and a free and open economy. Mr Chau also introduced the Hong Kong Government's talent attraction initiatives, including the Top Talent Pass Scheme, which offers streamlined pathways for high-potential professionals to develop their careers in Hong Kong. He shared insights into the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, encouraging young talents and entrepreneurs to leverage Hong Kong’s gateway role to tap into vast opportunities in innovation, finance, technology, healthcare, and beyond.



	*The Hong Kong Children’s Choir to perform in Hobart, Sydney and Auckland this July (Australia and New Zealand)* This July, the internationally acclaimed Hong Kong Children’s Choir (HKCC) will bring its angelic voices to Australia and New Zealand for a series of unforgettable performances. As part of the tour, the choir will participate in the renowned Festival of Voices in Hobart, before heading to Sydney for a special charity concert on 9 July at the Sydney Town Hall in support of CanRevive. HKCC will then travel to New Zealand for its debut at the stunning Holy Trinity Cathedral in Auckland, where the “Dreams to Dream” concert will feature a heartfelt programme including the beloved Māori folk song Pokarekare Ana. Don’t miss this inspiring musical journey that celebrates the voices and dreams of Hong Kong’s youth. Sydney \| 9 July: More details here. Auckland \| 11 July: More details here.

	*FIBA 3x3 World Tour Hong Kong 2025 (Hong Kong)* Taking place from 19 to 20 July, the FIBA 3x3 World Tour 2025 will bring together 16 of the world’s best men’s 3x3 basketball teams to compete for the championship. Alongside the high-energy matches, the 3x3 Village will offer an immersive experience that blends urban sports with a variety of interactive side activities, bringing new experiences to spectators. More details here.

	*Ani-com & Games Hong Kong (Hong Kong)* Ani-com & Games Hong Kong returns from 25 to 29 July as one of the Hong Kong’s most popular summer events, bringing together global pop culture in animation, comic and gaming for an exciting 5-day event. Running alongside the main event, the Hong Kong Art Toys Expo will showcase a diverse range of collectible art toys and the latest creations from leading designers and artists. More details here.

	*Kai Tak Summer Playcation Fest (Hong Kong)* Get ready for an epic summer adventure at the Kai Tak Summer Playcation Fest, running every Fridays to Sundays from July to September 2025 at the Kai Tak Sports Park! Every weekend features game challenges, plush toy prizes, photo-worthy moments, local food stalls, and mini parties. Whether you are teaming up for playful competitions or relaxing by the harbourfront, it’s the perfect spot where sunshine, sports, and smiles come together! More details here.

Updates on Latest Situation in Hong Kong